Rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that comes together with ease. This dish combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa with a luscious tomato-cream sauce and tender pasta, all finished with a generous sprinkle of parmesan and herbs. It’s a family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet requires minimal prep time.

The base of the sauce blends tomato sauce, tomato paste, and heavy cream to create a balanced, velvety texture. Garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of dried parsley infuse the dish with flavor, while parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy finish. The smoked sausage brings a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce and pasta, making every bite flavorful and comforting.

This one-pot-style dish is perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also special enough for casual gatherings. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that satisfies your craving for something cozy and creamy, Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a recipe you’ll turn to time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-Packed: Smoky sausage, garlic, herbs, and a creamy tomato sauce deliver bold, rich flavor in every bite.
One-Pan Simplicity: Most of the dish is prepared in one pan, making cleanup easy.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike thanks to its creamy texture and savory taste.
Great for Leftovers: Reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Kielbasa (smoked sausage)
Pasta
Butter
Minced garlic
Heavy whipping cream
Tomato sauce
Tomato paste
Shredded parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Dried parsley

Variations

Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy kielbasa for a kick.
Use Different Sausage: Try andouille or chicken sausage for a flavor twist.
Add Veggies: Sauté bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Cheese Blend: Add mozzarella or fontina along with the parmesan for extra cheesiness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, slice the kielbasa into rounds and brown it in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and heavy whipping cream. Mix well to combine into a smooth sauce.

Step 5

Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 7

Stir in the shredded parmesan cheese and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thickened.

Step 8

Sprinkle dried parsley over the top before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Brown the sausage well to bring out its full smoky flavor.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and meltability.
Stir the sauce regularly to prevent it from sticking or separating.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

How to Serve

Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
Pair with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Add a glass of red wine or sparkling water for an elevated dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works—penne, rotini, or shells all hold the sauce well.

2. Is kielbasa fully cooked?

Most store-bought kielbasa is fully cooked; just brown it to enhance the flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.

4. Can I use milk instead of cream?

Heavy cream creates the creamiest texture, but whole milk or half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.

5. Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add spice with chili flakes or hot sausage.

6. How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a bit more parmesan cheese.

7. Can I omit the tomato paste?

It helps deepen the tomato flavor, but you can skip it or add a bit more tomato sauce as a substitute.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.

9. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the cheese or use plant-based cheese.

10. Will this recipe double well?

Yes, it’s easy to double—just use a large enough pan and adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, velvety tomato-cream sauce. It’s a go-to dinner that pleases the whole family and comes together quickly with pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just need a cozy dish to enjoy on a cold night, this pasta delivers in every way. Keep it in your regular rotation for a satisfying and delicious meal that never disappoints.